Q460NH and Q500NH are Chinese standard (GB/T 4171) high-strength, low-alloy weathering (Corten) steel plates known for excellent atmospheric corrosion resistance, forming a stable, rust-like protective layer, making them ideal for structures like bridges, sculptures, and railway cars, with the "460" and "500" indicating minimum yield strengths (in MPa) for thinner sections, offering good weldability and impact toughness for outdoor architectural and structural applications.
Chemical Composition
| Grade | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cu | Cr | Ni |
| Q460NH | 0.12 | 0.65 | 1.5 | 0.025 | 0.03 | 0.20-0.55 | 0.30-1.25 | 0.12-0.65 |
| Grade | C | Si | Mn | P | S | Cu | Cr | Ni |
| Q500NH | 0.12 | 0.65 | 2 | 0.025 | 0.03 | 0.20-0.55 | 0.30-1.25 | 0.12-0.65 |
Mechanical Property
| Grade | Yield Strength(MPa) | Tensile Strength(MPa) | % Elongation in 2 in.(50mm) min |
| Q460NH | 460 | 570-730 | 20 |
| Grade | Yield Strength(MPa) | Tensile Strength(MPa) | % Elongation in 2 in.(50mm) min |
| Q500NH | 500 | 600-760 | 18 |
Key Characteristics & Comparison
Type: Both are weathering steels (Corten steel), designed to develop a protective patina, reducing maintenance.
Strength: They are high-strength steels; Q460NH has a minimum yield strength of 460 MPa (for thinner plates), while Q500NH offers a higher minimum yield strength of 500 MPa (for thinner plates).
Standard: Defined by China's GB/T 4171 standard, alongside other grades like Q355NH, Q550NH, etc..
Properties: Good weldability, low-temperature impact toughness, excellent plastic forming, and abrasion resistance.
Applications: Outdoor sculptures, bridges, railway construction, architectural facades, containers, and other outdoor structures requiring durability and aesthetic appeal.
Strength Level: Q500NH is stronger than Q460NH, suitable for applications needing higher load-bearing capacity or thinner material sections.
Application Niche: While both serve similar purposes, the choice depends on specific project strength requirements and design.
